Nominated by
fatimah amer
July 30, 2025
Umar is inspiring and empowering young people to take action and connect with others who may be outside their “bubble.” He has been instrumental in bringing Mona Foundation to Arizona – the first chapter in the country to host tablings, advocacy movements, and a national summit to open the dialogue for girls'education.
The Mona Foundation program invites people from the community to share their unique stories and experiences in education as “human books.” Those in attendance “the readers” then ask questions and cultivate genuine connections with people from all walks of life. Tucson hosted its first event in 2022 and had more than 160 students and community members attend. The events serve as a reminder to not judge a person by their appearance and to listen before drawing conclusions. Umar understands the financial and social circumstances preventing young teenagers, particularly females, from receiving adequate education. By fostering compassion at these education equity events Umar is fostering awareness and supporting an impactful, emphatic approach to solving the education gap.
In addition to serving as the Arizona chapter president and being on the national Mona youth advisory board, Umar serves as the President of the BASIS Student Government. He is also the sponsorship head for the Phoenix Children's Hospital Teen Advisory Council, raising over $105,100 in just 2 months, and is part of the Arizona Science Center Advisory Board and HonorHealth Medical Explorers.